Things You'll Need:
- A clean background and no crimial history
- Knowledge of what the job really entails
- Education and/or experience in crime scene investigation
- Good writing skills
- Patience
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Step 1
Be certain that this is the career for you! Real CSI work is not like what you see on TV. You will be exposed to scenes involving bodies and smells in various stages of decomposition. You will also be working with chemicals that may be hazardous to your health.
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Step 2
Talk to someone already working in the field! This is a great way to get first hand advice. If you don't know any real CSI's, go to your local police or sheriff's department and make an appointment to talk to someone with experience. Most agencies will not have a problem with this as long as you call ahead.
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Step 3
Volunteer at your local police or sheriff department! Most agencies have some type of a police volunteer program. If you have a few hours to donate a month, it is a great way to learn police procedures which are the foundation to crime scene investigations. Although you may not be able to directly work a crime scene as a volunteer, you will be able to gain valuable experience and probably a few good letters of recommendation.
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Step 4
Take some classes! Classes or even a degree in criminal justice won't hurt but having a background in a science is even more helpful. Many crime labs require their applicants to have degrees in some type of science (biology, chemistry, etc).
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Step 5
Decide what type of agency you want to work for! Do you want to work for the federal government? Maybe the state crime lab? A local police department? Research that particular agency by studying their website and determine if it's a good fit for you.
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Step 6
Send in your application and resume! The CSI field is very competitive and sometimes you will have hundreds of applicants for one or two positions. Do not be discouraged if you do not get a job right away.
